What is National Ladder Safety Month?

National Ladder Safety Month, observed in March and spearheaded by the American
Ladder Institute (ALI), is the only program dedicated exclusively to promoting ladder
safety, at home and work. Each year, tens of thousands of injuries and hundreds of
deaths are caused by ladder misuse. By providing critical guidelines and raising
awareness on safe use, we can help decrease these numbers. ALI, the only approved
developer of safety standards for the U.S. ladder industry, is the presenting sponsor for
National Ladder Safety Month.
ALI believes ladder accidents are preventable with thorough safety planning, training,
and continuous innovation in product design. The more people, organizations, and
businesses get involved, the wider the message spreads, and the more people learn
about proper ladder safety. Please visit www.americanladderinstitute.org for more
information about National Ladder Safety Month.

Chainsaw Safety: Gear Up, Plan Ahead, and Cut Smart

Chainsaws are powerful tools that can be incredibly helpful for a variety of tasks, from clearing brush and felling trees to cutting firewood. However, they can also be dangerous if not used properly. To ensure your safety while using a chainsaw, it’s essential to follow proper safety procedures and wear the right personal protective equipment (PPE).

Before You Start:

• Read the manual: Every chainsaw is different, so it’s crucial to familiarize yourself with the specific safety features and operating instructions of your saw before starting it up.
• Plan your cuts: Before you begin cutting, plan your cutting path and escape route in case the tree falls unexpectedly. Be aware of your surroundings and ensure there are no bystanders or hazards within the falling zone.
• Inspect your chainsaw: Before each use, check your chainsaw for any damage, loose parts, or malfunctions. Ensure the chain is properly tensioned, lubricated, and sharp. A dull chain is more likely to bind and cause kickback.

Gear Up:

• Eye protection: Wear safety glasses or a face shield to protect your eyes from flying debris.
• Hearing protection: Chainsaws can be very loud, so wear earmuffs or earplugs to protect your hearing.
• Head protection: Wear a forestry helmet to protect your head from falling branches and debris.
• Hand protection: Wear cut-resistant gloves to protect your hands from cuts and scrapes.
• Leg protection: Wear chaps or chainsaw pants made of a special material that can help stop a chainsaw in the event of accidental contact.
• Footwear: Wear sturdy boots with steel toes and good ankle support for secure footing.
• Long pants and long sleeves: Wear long pants and long sleeves to protect your skin from scratches and debris.

Safety Tips:

• Never operate a chainsaw alone: Always have another person present in case of an emergency.
• Keep your hands on the handles: Maintain a firm grip on both handles of the chainsaw at all times.
• Maintain proper stance: Stand with your feet shoulder-width apart and keep your knees slightly bent for better balance.
• Start the chainsaw on the ground: Never start a chainsaw while it is in your hands or up in a tree.
• Be aware of kickback: Kickback is the sudden upward and backward motion of the chainsaw that can occur when the tip of the bar touches an object. To avoid kickback, never cut with the tip of the bar, and be extra cautious when making plunge cuts.
• Cut at full throttle: Always engage the throttle fully before starting your cut. This will help the chain maintain speed and reduce the risk of binding.
• Don’t force the saw: If the chainsaw starts to bog down or bind, stop cutting and let the saw do the work. Forcing the saw can lead to kickback or loss of control.
• Take breaks: Chainsaw use can be tiring. Take breaks every 20-30 minutes to avoid fatigue, which can impair your judgment and coordination.
• Maintain your chainsaw: Regularly maintain your chainsaw according to the manufacturer’s instructions to ensure it is operating safely and efficiently.

By following these safety tips and wearing the proper PPE, you can help minimize the risk of injury while using a chainsaw. Remember, chainsaw safety is essential, so take the time to learn proper operating procedures and always prioritize safety when using this powerful tool.